Chikuwa Flowers

1. 1

   Cut the chikuwa open lengthwise.

2. 2

   Hold it flat and make evenly spaced crisscross cuts all along the inside.

3. 3

   (Be careful not to cut too deep.)

4. 4

   Flip the cut chikuwa piece over, line with a shiso leaf, and put on the filling of your choice close to the edge near you.

5. 5

   Roll it up.

6. 6

   (The edges will bend the other way so hold them down while rolling evenly.)

7. 7

   Secure the rolled up end with 5 to 6 toothpicks or bento picks spaced evenly.

8. 8

   Cut in between the picks.

9. 9

   You have rolled up colorful chikuwa flowers.

10. 10

    You can easily make 5 to 6 flowers out of 1 chikuwa stick.

11. 11

    Watch out for your salt intake though.

12. 12

    I put them in my oldest son's school outing bento.

No additional tips available.